Definition

Noun: 1. A cavalry soldier historically armed with a lance: A lancer was a type of mounted soldier, particularly prominent in European armies from the 17th to the early 20th centuries, whose primary weapon was a long spear called a lance. 2. A member of a lancer regiment: The term can also refer to a soldier belonging to a specific military unit that retains the traditional title and often the ceremonial dress of historical lancer regiments, even if the lance is no longer used as a standard weapon.

Examples

• Noun:
  • The Polish lancers charged with great speed and bravery.
  • He served as a lancer in the British Army during the Napoleonic Wars.
  • The regiment of lancers paraded in their distinctive uniforms.

Advanced Usage

• "Lancers" (plural, often capitalized): Can refer to specific, named military regiments.
  • He was an officer in the 17th Lancers.
• Figurative use: Sometimes used to describe someone who attacks or criticizes sharply and directly.
  • The journalist was known as a lancer for her incisive political commentary.

Variants and Related Words

• Lance (noun): The long spear carried by a lancer.
• Lance (verb): To pierce with or as if with a lance; to make a surgical incision.
• Lancerette (noun, historical/rare): A female performer in certain theatrical or ceremonial contexts involving lances.

Synonyms

• Cavalryman
• Horseman
• Trooper
• Dragoon (though dragoons were originally mounted infantry, the terms are sometimes conflated)

Related Phrases

• Lancer regiment: A military unit historically composed of lancers.
• Uhlan: A type of lancer, particularly in German, Polish, and Austrian armies.

Noun

1. (formerly) a cavalryman armed with a lance